Femi Oke

Naija Travels part 13: Today kids are back to school across Nigeria, & the streets are full of the sounds of kids playing happy to be back in school

I went past my school, African Church Grammar School Abeokuta. I can’t believe the number of kids in the school. If you have any doubt about Nigeria’s population growth approaching 250 million, you just need to go to any public school where you will see average class sizes of 130-150 & more overflowing. I met

Naija Travels part 13: Today kids are back to school across Nigeria, & the streets are full of the sounds of kids playing happy to be back in school Read More »

Naija Travels Part 12: Diasporans don’t come from a land flowing with milk & honey where the roads are paved with gold. We work damn hard for our money

Once you Japada, you will be a target for all manner of philanthropy. Before indulging, ask yourself: Can you truly afford it? You may think the exchange rate favours you, but before long, unless you have truly deep pockets, you will be running out of money and may Japa be broke. Make sure you’ve purchased

Naija Travels Part 12: Diasporans don’t come from a land flowing with milk & honey where the roads are paved with gold. We work damn hard for our money Read More »

Naija Travels Part 10: Navigating the Challenges of Doing Business in Nigeria, A Diaspora’s Perspective

Relocating to or investing in Nigeria is a complex endeavor, often fueled by patriotism and a desire to contribute to the nation’s growth. However, it’s essential to approach this decision with a clear-eyed view, considering both the potential rewards and significant challenges. A Land of Opportunities and Frustrations While Nigeria offers immense potential, the reality

Naija Travels Part 10: Navigating the Challenges of Doing Business in Nigeria, A Diaspora’s Perspective Read More »

Naija Travels Part 9: Diasporans Relocating Back to Naija: The Importance of Mobility and Car Ownership

Diasporans relocating back to Naija must be mobile: buying cars in Naija does & don’ts Wanting to be independent means you must be mobile. Most privileged diasporans have well-to-do relatives & friends who are happy to take them about in their spare cars, give them a car with a driver, or you can hire a

Naija Travels Part 9: Diasporans Relocating Back to Naija: The Importance of Mobility and Car Ownership Read More »

Naija Travels Part 8: On My Way to Abeokuta Again—Observations on the Lagos to Ibadan Road

The Lagos to Ibadan Expressway is undoubtedly Nigeria’s busiest motorway and, without a doubt, one of the most improved. This road stands out as the best motorway I have traveled on, a far cry from the treacherous Lagos to Abeokuta route via Ota. That road is a nightmare for motorists—a bone-shattering ordeal. I can only

Naija Travels Part 8: On My Way to Abeokuta Again—Observations on the Lagos to Ibadan Road Read More »

Naija Travels Part 7: How easy is it for Diaspora to Invest & Japada back to Naija?

For many Nigerians in the diaspora, the idea of investing and eventually “Japada” (relocating back) to Naija is both exciting and challenging. A significant portion of the diaspora often laments that if Nigeria provided better opportunities, stability, and infrastructure, they wouldn’t have left in the first place. Despite contributing tens of billions of dollars annually

Naija Travels Part 7: How easy is it for Diaspora to Invest & Japada back to Naija? Read More »